Kumquat

Kumquats may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Kumquats originated in East Asia, evolving from the same plant family as oranges, lemons, and limes. Colonization and trade brought kumquats to Europe and beyond, but most are still grown on their native continent today. The English name kumquat is believed to be derived from Cantonese (gām-gwāt) or Japanese (kinkan). While the plants favor warm and sunny regions, kumquats are fairly resistant to cold, leading them to be crossed with other citrus to produce hybrids like the calamansi and limequat.

Yes. Kumquats are a great source of vitamin C, which powers baby’s immune system and aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. They are also a great source of fiber to support baby’s digestive system, and a good source of certain B vitamins (like vitamin B6 and folate), calcium, and potassium, which play an important role in blood, brain, cell, and skin health. The peel is particularly high in several plant-based compounds shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

No, kumquats are not classified as a common food allergen. However, self-reported sensitivity to citrus is described frequently in medical literature around the world. Also, individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) may be sensitive to citrus fruits such as kumquats. In particular, individuals who are allergic to grass and certain tree pollens may also be more sensitive to citrus fruits. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction.

Note that kumquat is highly acidic, and contact with the juice may cause a harmless rash on the skin, typically around the mouth. It usually dissipates after a short time. Additionally, the acid can be irritating to a baby’s digestive tract, as well as cause or worsen diaper rashes when consumed in excess. The peel of kumquat also contains a compound called limonene, which is a known contact allergen and can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals.

Kumquat is associated with phytophotodermatitis, a skin condition that occurs when a person gets the juice from the fruit on the skin and doesn't wash it off. Compounds in the juice are activated by the sun and cause an itchy and occasionally blistering and painful rash on the skin. Cleaning the skin after citrus contact and using sun protection can help to prevent the phytophotodermatitis rash.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes. Kumquats are firm, round, and challenging to chew, qualities that increase choking risk. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve kumquats in an age-appropriate way. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

End the meal and follow up with a breast or bottle feed. Never pressure a baby or child to eat; it will only worsen food refusal in the long run. Babies refuse food for different reasons, such as teething, illness, sleepiness, or lack of energy or interest in learning a new skill. For information on why baby may refuse to eat, see our guide, Handling Food Refusal.

When first getting started, offer a small amount and trust that baby knows how to show interest in wanting more by grunting, pointing, or reaching out. Keep in mind that most babies between 6 and 9 months of age do not consume much solid food at first. For babies between 10 and 12 months of age, work toward what a balanced adult meal would look like, just with smaller portions than what you might have. Follow the child’s lead: when baby indicates “more”, offer more food. When baby shows signs that they are finished, stop offering food.